ALESSANDRO PISTONE has handed Everton's beleaguered defence a major boost by returning to full training.

ALESSANDRO PISTONE has handed Everton's beleaguered defence a major boost by returning to full training.

The 28-year-old Italian left-back (left) was struck down by a hernia problem at the start of last month and had to undergo an operation in Italy on October 10.

He was expected to be out for six weeks, but has returned to full training this week after a faster than expected recovery.

The defender, who acquired British citizenship last week, could now be in contention for a return to the squad for the home clash with Wolves in nine days.

With Alan Stubbs also recovering after suffering a bout of the flu, David Moyes' defensive options are opening up once again.

However, the severity of the bug which has swept through Goodison was underlined with news that Stubbs has lost half a stone in weight because of the illness.

On Monday the manager had to call upon Peter Clarke for his first start since the FA Cup third round defeat at Shrewsbury last season because of a lack of options.

But now only David Weir, who is expected to be out for another month with a medial knee ligament injury, remains on the list of injured defenders.

Scot Gemmill is also back in full training after recovering from a thigh injury.

The Scottish midfielder has not made a senior appearance this season because of the persistent injury, which recurred last month after a brief return to fitness.

Meanwhile, Wayne Rooney today reported for training with the England squad in Manchester after showing signs of recovery from the same bug which struck Stubbs.

With coach Sven Goran Eriksson selecting only three forwards in the absence of the injured Michael Owen, Rooney's rapid recovery is important ahead of Sunday's Old Trafford encounter with Denmark.

FA spokesman Adrian Bevington said: "Wayne Rooney will join up with the England squad in Manchester. We are hopeful he will be available for the game against Denmark on Sunday."

Everton physio Mike Rathbone said: "We went to see him yesterday and he was quite unwell but the doctor has been to see Wayne again this morning and after 24 hours rest and a good night's sleep, he is much improved.

"We have since spoken with the medical staff at the FA and informed them we are happy he's improved enough to join up with the England squad."